Blepharoplasty

Eyelid Surgery – Blepharoplasty

An eyelid lift, also known as “blepharoplasty,” can improve the appearance of the eyes by removing excess skin and tissue from the upper and lower eyelids. Those who would like a brighter, more alert appearance in the area surrounding the eyes would benefit from eyelid lift surgery.

Candidates for Eyelid Surgery

The ideal candidate for an eyelid lift procedure can relate to the following:

• Is physically healthy with no life-threatening illnesses or medical conditions
• Has realistic expectations of the surgery
• Has no serious eye conditions
• Does not smoke
• Has excess skin in the upper eyelids that may cause impaired vision

Eyelid Surgery Procedure

You will have the choice between intravenous sedation and general anesthesia to make you more comfortable during surgery. For the upper eyelid lift, an incision within the natural crease of the lid is used to correct sagging skin beneath the brow that can create a tired appearance. Through this incision, fat deposits and tissue are repositioned or removed, and excess skin is removed. For a lower eyelid lift, the incision is made just below the lower lash line to remove or redistribute excess fat and remove excess skin. An alternative technique for the lower eyelid lift is a transconjunctival incision, which is made inside the lower lid along the lash line. This incision can be used to remove or redistribute excess fat, but excess skin cannot be excised. Incisions are then closed with absorbable or removable sutures, skin adhesives, or surgical tape.

Recovery for Eyelid Surgery

Once the procedure is complete your eyes may be covered with lubricating ointment and loosely covered with gauze, and cold compresses may be applied. Swelling, bruising, and dryness of the eyes may occur during the recovery period. This generally lasts about two weeks for most patients, but recovery time will vary. Dr. Thompson will prescribe pain medication to help with any discomfort and give you specific instructions on how to care for your eyes.

Eyelid Surgery Results

The results of eyelid surgery will be apparent after several weeks, and incision lines will continue to fade for up to a year. Patients will have a more youthful and alert appearance, and impaired vision will be corrected. Certain aspects of the surgery will remain permanent, but your eyes will continue to age naturally.

Risks and Side Effects of Eyelid Surgery

As with any surgery, there are some risks associated with an eyelid lift. These include:

• Scarring
• Temporarily blurred vision
• Dry eyes
• Rolling of the eyelid outward (ectropion)
• Infection
• Numbness or changes in skin sensation
• Skin discoloration
• Loss of eyesight
• Blood clots

Consultation for Eyelid Surgery

If you are considering an eyelid lift in the Colts Neck, New Jersey area, schedule a consultation with Dr. Thompson today. He will review your health history, any concerns you may have, and all risks and procedural techniques with you so that you can make an informed decision about whether to undergo the procedure. Feel free to call 732-410-4789 or fill out our contact form to schedule your eyelid lift consultation.